Family Science Learning Outdoors: Parent Roles in Place-Based Mobile Augmented Reality

• In Event: Informal STEM Learning: Exploration, Interest, and Performance

Abstract

Mobile Augmented Reality (MAR) facilitates forms of collaborative family science learning in informal, outdoor environments (Ryokai & Agogino, 2013). However, current research on the roles parents take during MAR learning experiences is limited (Author, 2018). This study investigates the interactions between parents and children during an immersive MAR app experience in an outdoor, informal learning environment to find emerging parent roles while learning-on-the-move. We find that roles identified in previous informal family learning studies are prevalent in MAR learning. In addition, we identify roles that specifically affect learning on-the-move and place-based experience facilitation. This analysis contributes new dynamic family interactions in place-based MAR learning that enhance understanding of family science learning in informal, outdoor environments.

Authors

• Stephanie Bowles, Pennsylvania State University
  Presenting Author

• Heather Toomey Zimmerman, Pennsylvania State University
  Presenting Author

• Susan M. Land, Pennsylvania State University
  Presenting Author

• Yu-Chen Chiu, Pennsylvania State University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Lillyanna Faimon, Pennsylvania State University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Charles Keith, Pennsylvania State University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Lucy McClain, Pennsylvania State University
  Non-Presenting Author